Design principles to foster respect for nature in video games

Abstract: Video games are critical and relevant tools which can be used to influence perceptions of nature. Many games have already sought to educate players about environmental issues, but the effect that games as a whole have on players’ respect for nature is yet uncertain. This thesis thus aims to investigate this issue by conducting a game analysis based on a framework of respect for nature, which will be established as a foundational aspect of this paper. From the game analysis, lessons and design principles that can be employed in future game design to foster respect for nature in players will be collated.